đ Garlic Butter Seared Scallops
Introduction
Garlic Butter Seared Scallops are a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily make at home in under 15 minutes. Perfectly seared on the outside and tender on the inside, these scallops are infused with the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and a hint of lemon. Whether youâre preparing a romantic dinner or a sophisticated appetizer, this dish is a showstopper thatâs both luxurious and simple.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Scallops have long been a prized delicacy in coastal cuisines across the world â from French fine dining to Japanese sashimi and New England seafood classics. The technique of searing scallops in butter is deeply rooted in French cuisine, where chefs perfected the art of achieving a crisp, caramelized crust (the âMaillard reactionâ) while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Today, garlic butter scallops symbolize refined simplicity â high-quality ingredients prepared with minimal fuss for maximum flavor.
Ingredients and Quantities
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large sea scallops (dry-packed) | 1 lb (450 g) |
| Unsalted butter | 3 tbsp (45 g) |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp (15 ml) |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp (15 ml) |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp (or to taste) |
| Black pepper | Âź tsp |
| Optional: Lemon zest | ½ tsp |
Optional Additions
- White wine (2 tbsp) â adds depth and acidity to the butter sauce
- Crushed red pepper flakes â for a subtle heat
- Fresh thyme or rosemary â aromatic herbs that complement seafood beautifully
- Parmesan cheese â sprinkle lightly for richness
- Caper butter sauce â for a briny, Mediterranean twist
Tips for Success
- Use dry scallops: Always buy dry-packed scallops (no added liquid) for perfect browning.
- Pat scallops dry: Moisture prevents searing â blot them well with paper towels.
- Donât overcrowd the pan: Sear in batches if necessary for even golden crusts.
- Use high heat: Cast-iron or stainless-steel pans give the best caramelization.
- Butter timing: Add butter and garlic after searing to prevent burning.
- Rest briefly: Let scallops sit a minute before serving so the juices redistribute.
Instructions
- Prepare scallops:
Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. - Heat the pan:
In a large skillet (preferably cast-iron), heat olive oil over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering. - Sear the scallops:
Add scallops in a single layer without crowding. Sear undisturbed for 1½â2 minutes on the first side until a golden crust forms.
Flip and sear another 1â2 minutes on the other side. Remove to a plate and set aside. - Make the garlic butter sauce:
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant (donât brown the garlic).
Add lemon juice (and white wine if using), and let it bubble for 20â30 seconds to combine. - Combine and serve:
Return scallops to the pan, spoon the garlic butter over them, and cook for another 30 seconds to coat.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a touch of lemon zest before serving.
Description
Garlic Butter Seared Scallops are buttery, tender, and bursting with flavor. The golden crust gives way to a melt-in-your-mouth interior, perfectly complemented by the rich garlic-lemon butter sauce. Each bite feels luxurious â a simple yet elegant celebration of the oceanâs finest flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, serves 4)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Sugars | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
| Cholesterol | 65 mg |
(Values may vary depending on butter and portion size.)
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Seared Scallops recipe delivers elegance and flavor with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and the right technique, you can create a restaurant-worthy seafood dish in minutes. Itâs proof that simplicity and quality ingredients make for the most memorable meals.
Recommendation
Serve these scallops immediately over creamy mashed potatoes, risotto, or pasta, or pair them with a side of steamed asparagus, garlic green beans, or lemony rice. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the buttery richness perfectly.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Scallops are naturally low in fat, high in protein, and rich in nutrients like vitamin B12, magnesium, and omega-3s â making this indulgent dish surprisingly nutritious. By using real butter, fresh garlic, and olive oil, youâre treating yourself to clean, wholesome flavor.
Enjoying elegant food doesnât mean it has to be complicated â it just needs to be made with love and balance.